trying to get proper co2

In the long run, Flourish will cost a lot more $$ than pressurized CO2. It will help in the short run, though. Either add more flourish or add more DIY bottles (and make sure you're getting the CO2 into the water - if the ladder is burping bubbles, it isn't doing the job).

Others are correct - changing your KH will not alter your CO2 levels. Only adding CO2 will do that.

You may also be interested in adding a drop checker (search "drop checker" here or at APC forums or at AA's forums)

The ladder seems to be working fine (not burping bubbles).
I do have the Sera co2 indicator, as shown, but the first couple times I tried it, I couldn't get it. I will try again.

co2_testkit.jpg
 
Yeah don't worry about all the stuff you have purchase kooter, they are good products and you will use them up. Look up diy co2 suger and yeast and get to work (cheapist way and it works).

Excel is good stuff but do not over use it thinking you are going to be raising your c02 level, it is not c02. If you use too much it can kill your plants.

I am here in Whatcom county, right below you.
 
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Yeah don't worry about all the stuff you have purchase kooter, they are good products and you will use them up. Look diy co2 suger and yeast and get to work (cheapist way and it works).

Excel is good stuff but do not over use it thinking you are going to be raising your c02 level, it is not c02. If you use too much it can kill your plants.

I am here in Whatcom county, right below you.

kill my plants? wow, good to know.
I am looking at some DIY stuff right now. Wondering if 2 4L jugs would work?
 
Yeap start out with one after it is going for 24 hours check your ph and see how much it has dropped.
It is good to go one step at a time so you see the relationship with your work and water parameters.

Your going to need another diffuser (hagen ladder or other method) for every additional diy co2 bottle you setup.
 
Excel is NOT liquid CO2. It's a organic carbon.

Take a few minutes and read my Guide. Bulk dry nutrients are much cheaper than the liquids.

Wow. Great read Rex! I think I will try the DIY system you mentioned.
I already have all the parts. One question, - should I have 4 2L bottles or would 2 4L bottles work?
 
ok thx. Rex. I am going to try it. I will keep you posted.
one more question though.........can I still use the flourish excel?
and what is the difference between the "organic" carbon and the "gaseous" state that the yeast produces......it's still carbon?!
Hopefully that wasn't a stupid question.........roast away if you would like as long as I get an answer! :p: :o
 
Rex:

Can I hook all 4 2L bottles up to the 1 line like your example or would that produce too much pressure?
 
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